Metallic appearance

Light and dark reflections follow the surface, creating a hard dense metallic feel.

Visual traits

• Strong reflection
• Hard highlights
• Dark environment reflections

Expected changes

• Reflections are more likely to become clear
• The surface is more likely to look hard

Definition

Metallic appearance reflects surrounding light or images relatively clearly and gives a hard cool impression. It does not establish that an object is actually metal, its metal type, or its use.

In more detail

Bright highlights and dark reflections following curves or edges make a surface look dense and hard. It can range from polished to dull metal feel. It is distinct from glass transmission, matte diffusion, and gloss alone.

Includes

• Strong environmental reflection
• Highlights that appear hard

Excludes

• Transparent glass feel
• Matte diffuse reflection
• Actual metal material specification

What this does not imply

• Actual metal
• Transparent glass
• A particular color or manufacturing method

Variability

Degree of polish and reflection strength can be adjusted.

Usage

• Show reflection and hard highlights

Distinguish similar expressions

• Specify actual material separately

Typical uses

• Make a surface look hard and reflective
• Give light metallic behavior

Possible failure modes

• It becomes merely glossy
• It becomes glasslike and transparent
• It becomes matte